'End of hunger, beginning of accountability': Sonam Wangchuk on why he called off 26-day fast

Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk concluded his 26-day hunger strike on Thursday, having secured written assurances from the central government and Members of Parliament. The commitments address concerns over the alleged NEET paper leak, accountability within the nation's examination system, and compensation for families affected by exam-related suicides.

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Hello friends, today, on the 26th day, I would like to share some important news with all of you.

Wangchuk announced the end of his fast from Medanta Hospital after Union ministers JP Nadda and Jitendra Singh met with him, alongside leaders of the Ladakh Apex Body. They conveyed the government's assurances, which were also detailed in a statement.

The government's statement indicated a positive stance on not pursuing cases against individuals who protested peacefully at Jantar Mantar or joined the July 20 march to Parliament. Furthermore, it pledged thorough discussions in Parliament to resolve issues of paper leaks and implement educational reforms. The government is also positively considering compensation for victims of recent NEET paper leaks.

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For the past two days, we had been engaged in very tough negotiations because I wanted an assurance, and I wanted it in writing. That process took two days, which is why I had to continue my hunger strike for two more days. I was prepared to continue even longer if necessary, but finally today they have given the assurance.

Wangchuk emphasized the necessity of written commitments, stating that negotiations were tough but ultimately successful. He had been prepared to continue the strike longer if written assurances were not provided. The activist's fast aimed to draw attention to systemic issues in India's examination processes.

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The statement from the government's side says that the government is positive about not registering cases against those who protested peacefully at Jantar Mantar in Delhi and those who participated in the ‘Chalo Sansad’ march on July 20.